Naughty foods make us think of things such as whole grains, oily fish, and berries but did you know there are three naughty but nice brain boosting options too?

Naughty foods for your shopping list

So when you next feel like indulging and wish to pin it on being healthy, include these three options and boost your brain power.

– Chocolate

For brain boosting the chocolate needs to be that of the dark variety which is more than 70% cocoa. Dark chocolate contains vital flavonoids otherwise known as anti-oxidants, these have been successfully linked to brain health.

Did you know that eating dark chocolate can make you happy? Endorphins bind with the opiate receptors in your brain leading to feelings of euphoria, in other words, a “chocolate high.” Chocolate is also a top dietary source of tryptophan, an amino acid precursor to serotonin and the neurotransmitter of happiness. Now that’s good enough reason to snack on a little dark chocolate today.

– Red Wine

Studies have shown that people who consume moderate amounts of red wine may experience a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease. So bottom’s up! Resveratrol is a key ingredient in red wine that helps prevent damage to blood vessels, it reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or “bad” cholesterol and prevents blood clots.

– Avocado

Avocados are a great source of monounsaturated fats (omega 3, and omega 6). These essential fatty acids increase blood flow to the brain, lower cholesterol, and even aid in the absorption of antioxidants. Avocados contain antioxidants which protect the body and the brain from free radical (pollution) damage. Avocados are a rich source of Vitamin E, Potassium and Vitamin K. All of these vitamins are known to protect the brain from the risk of stroke.

Our thoughts on so-called “naughty foods”

So there you have it, whether it’s an afternoon snack or a late night indulgence you have plenty of excuses to consume naughty foods to boost your brain.

For memory loss, depression, anxiety, and other cognitive disorders there is also a new cutting edge treatment called Brain Mapping. This treatment includes Brain Training and can help alleviate and restores brain functioning. Brain mapping is a must for those who struggle with cognitive mental health.